réveillonner

Réveillonner is a French verb that describes the act of celebrating New Year's Eve. It is derived from the word "réveillon," which refers to the late-night meal eaten on Christmas Eve or New Year's Eve. To "réveillonner" means to stay up late and partake in festivities, often involving a special dinner, drinks, and socializing with friends and family as the clock strikes midnight to welcome the new year.

The tradition of réveillonner is deeply ingrained in French culture, symbolizing a moment of transition and reflection. While the specifics of how one réveillonne can vary greatly, from intimate gatherings at home to elaborate parties in public spaces, the core essence remains the same: to enjoy the company of others and bid farewell to the old year while embracing the new. It's a time for making resolutions, sharing hopes for the future, and celebrating the joy of the occasion.

The verb can be used in various contexts to describe the activity. For example, one might say "Nous allons réveillonner chez des amis" (We are going to celebrate New Year's Eve at friends' place) or "J'ai hâte de réveillonner cette année" (I can't wait to celebrate New Year's Eve this year). The act of réveillonner is fundamentally about communal celebration and the shared experience of marking the transition into a new calendar year.